Why should we invest in prevention?

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." It is better to prevent a problem, rather than waiting to deal with the aftermath.

Making early investments in the positive development of children and youth costs far less than failing to prevent youth substance abuse and violence. It costs more than $45,000 per year to confine a young person in the juvenile justice system. In contrast, effective prevention saves money, as well as reduces the human toll caused by substance abuse and violence. Research shows that for every $1 spent on prevention, the savings to society can range from $2 to $20, depending on the cost of the prevention service.

What is the extent of the problem related to substance use and violence?

Consider these facts:

Use of alcohol and other drugs plays a major role in the top three causes of death and injury among teenagers and young adults: car crashes, homicides, and suicides.

Children and youth who begin drinking and using drugs at an early age are at higher risk of developing later substance abuse problems.

Alcohol is the most widely used drug by children and youth. Alcohol use is linked with youthful deaths by drowning, suicide, and homicide.

Young people who drink alcohol are more likely to be victims of violent crime. They are more likely to be involved in car crashes. They are at higher risk for having serious school problems.

Police and schools report an increase in youth violence, and an increase in gang related violence by younger youth than previously seen.

Washington State conducts the Healthy Youth Survey every two years to collect vital information about students, their current drug use, and involvement in violent behaviors.

According to the 2010 Healthy Youth Survey, 12th grade students in King County reported the following:

39.6% drank alcohol

26.6% used marijuana or hashish

7.2% used other illegal drugs (i.e., not counting alcohol, marijuana and tobacco)

14.8% smoked cigarettes

17.8% were bullied

5.9% carried a weapon to school

14.6% had been physically abused by an adult

For detailed Healthy Youth Survey information and reports for King County, please see the attached: